Things to do in Exeter

Exeter, Rhode Island, offers a splendid mix of outdoor activities and scenic spots that are perfect for both adventure enthusiasts and families looking to settle in a vibrant area.

Exeter, Rhode Island, nestled in a serene rural setting, offers a peaceful retreat with an array of outdoor activities and historic sites. It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing at locations like the Arcadia Management Area, which spans over 14,000 acres of forested land. Bird watchers and wildlife photographers will find plenty of inspiration here as well. Exeter is also rich in history, home to the historic Tomaquag Museum, where visitors can learn about the region’s indigenous cultures through a variety of exhibits and educational programs. For golf lovers, the town features several scenic golf courses that cater to all skill levels. Additionally, Exeter's numerous farms offer a chance to experience local agriculture with seasonal activities like pumpkin picking and corn mazes, making it a delightful place for a family outing.

Exeter

A large portion of Exeter is “off the beaten path”. Residents usually travel to Wickford via Route 102 to visit the superstores for their weekly and monthly shopping needs. The area right near Wickford Junction contains Home Depot, Walmart, Stop & Shop, Staples, and more. There are also plenty of mom & pop stores throughout Exeter to grab what you need.

Pine Ridge is the largest indoor public shooting range in Rhode Island. It’s a membership shooting club but also open to the public at an hourly rate. There is a retail gun shop offering ammo, targets, and shooting supplies. You can also take a private lesson or group class on improving your skills.

Rhode Island’s first farm brewery located in a historic barn. Take a tour of the grounds, trying a tasting, buy cans to go, and relax in a unique setting.

Recreation & Activities

Multi-purpose recreation area open for both winter and summer activities. In the winter, buy daily lift tickets or season passes for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Equipment rentals are available in the Pro Shop. In the summer, visit the Waterpark with 750 ft slides and two swimming pools. Summer day camp is also available for children.

An 18-hole public golf course. According to the country club’s website, it’s been rated the best public golf course in Rhode Island. There are a full-service restaurant and bar, plus practice greenways and sandbars for players.

Maintained by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, Fisherville Brook is their largest public property at 1,010 acres. Great place for hiking and birdwatching, as well as cross country skiing in the winter months.

430-acre pond shared by Rhode Island and Connecticut state lands. A popular area for fishing and kayaking, though swimming is not allowed. According to the RI State Parks website, anglers might catch largemouth bass, pickerel, perch, catfish, smallmouth bass, walleye, and rainbow trout.

Rhode Island’s largest recreational area with over 14,000 acres of open land actively managed for hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Wood River offers one of the best fresh pond fishing opportunities in the state.

Open trails for hiking and mountain biking. Certain areas around Queens River Trailhead are open for hunting season. Also a great spot for kayaking.